Off Ice Stickhandling Drills For Hockey
Have you been looking for ways to improve your hockey stickhandling skills? Off ice stickhandling drills can help you get better at stickhandling without having to be on the ice. In this article, we will go over some effective off ice stickhandling drills that you can do at home.
Why is Stickhandling Important in Hockey?
Stickhandling is an important skill in hockey because it allows you to move the puck while maintaining control. This skill is essential in order to avoid defenders, make passes to teammates, and score goals. The better you are at stickhandling, the more confident you will be on the ice.
Off Ice Stickhandling Drills
Here are some off ice stickhandling drills that you can do at home:
1. Figure 8's
Set up two cones or objects about one stick length apart. Start at one cone and stickhandle around the other cone in a figure 8 pattern. Alternate which way you go around the cone each time. Repeat this drill for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
2. Toe Drags
Start with the puck in front of you. Drag the puck back towards your feet using the toe of your blade. Then, move the puck to the side and stickhandle around it. Repeat this drill for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
3. Stickhandling Stationary
Stand in one place and stickhandle the puck back and forth in front of you. Focus on keeping the puck close to your body and moving it quickly. You can also move the puck in a circle around your body. Repeat this drill for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
4. Around the World
Start with the puck in front of you. Move the puck in a circle around your body, using your stick to guide it. Start with a small circle and gradually make the circle larger. Repeat this drill for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
5. One-Handed Stickhandling
Practice stickhandling with only one hand on your stick. This will help improve your hand-eye coordination and make you a better stickhandler overall. Repeat this drill for 30 seconds to 1 minute on each hand.
Conclusion
Off ice stickhandling drills can help you get better at stickhandling without having to be on the ice. By practicing these drills regularly, you will see an improvement in your stickhandling skills and become a more confident player on the ice. Give these drills a try and see the improvement for yourself.
